take up

To pick up.

"The reel automatically took up the slack."

To begin doing (an activity) on a regular basis.

"I wish to take up mathematics."

To address (an issue).

"Let's take this up with the manager."

The act of taking something up, by tightening, absorption, or reeling in.

(machinery) That which takes up or tightens; specifically, a device in a sewing machine or loom for drawing up the slack thread as the needle rises, in completing a stitch.

Acceptance (of a proposal, offer, request, etc.).

"the take-up of benefits by the unemployed"